We.ve discussed Washington-related medals and
buttons in earlier issues. The upcoming November 15, 2008 Early American
History Auctions sale offers several of these. Here are a couple examples.
The first is Lot #2160: George Washington Inaugural Button .March The
Fourth 1789. Eagle and Sun. Next up is:

Baker 165A, Obverse 1, Reverse A1. 29mm. The purpose of
this significant variety was to honor the George Washington upon his
death. Holed, as always, at the top for suspension.

The rarity of
the Skull & Crossbones variety is much greater than that of the Urn
type. The Rulau/Fuld reference estimates of the surviving population of
each type, the difference is a ratio of about 8-10 .Urn. types for every 1
.Skull and Crossbones. type.